25.05.05 WSJ

1. Macroeconomics

Title: Trump Downplays Economic Concerns as He Looks to Cut Trade Deals
Source: The Wall Street Journal
Date: May 4, 2025
Key Takeaways:

• President Trump is minimizing concerns over economic turmoil as he advances trade negotiations and pressures Congress to pass a tax-and-spending bill.
• The administration plans to announce at least one trade deal to alleviate tariffs, seeking benefits like increased U.S. goods purchases and reduced trade barriers from partners.
• Despite signs of economic contraction in early 2025, markets have shown resilience, with the S&P 500 rebounding.
• Trump suggests he might lower Chinese tariffs but keeps permanent tariffs as leverage to encourage domestic investment.)
  Link: Read the article

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2. M&A / Private Equity

Title: Apollo's Marc Rowan: 'We Have Ground Things to a Halt'
Source: The Wall Street Journal
Date: May 5, 2025
Key Takeaways:

• Marc Rowan, CEO of Apollo Global Management, expressed concerns about the U.S. economy stalling due to trade tensions, stating that business investment and hiring have slowed.
• Rowan warned of the potential for two consecutive quarters of negative economic growth, aligning with the common definition of a recession.
• He criticized the implementation of U.S. tariff policies, asserting they have caused long-term damage to the nation's global investment appeal.
• Despite these concerns, Rowan maintained that the U.S. remains an exceptional investment destination for the foreseeable future.
  Link: Read the article

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3. Opinion (Columnist)

Title: Is Donald Trump a 'Man of Destiny'?
Source: The Wall Street Journal – Opinion
Date: May 2, 2025
Key Takeaways:

• Holman W. Jenkins Jr. explores the notion of Donald Trump as a "man of destiny," analyzing his political journey and impact.
• The column discusses Trump's approach to tariffs and trade policies, questioning their effectiveness and long-term implications.
• Jenkins examines the media's reaction to Trump's policies and the broader political landscape.
• The piece provides insight into the challenges and controversies surrounding Trump's leadership style and decisions.
  Link: Read the article